computer

I got a new work computer yesterday, because my old computer had been fussy and slow for a while. Now I have a new, fast CPU with Windows 10 and Microsoft Office 2016! I’m enjoying learning about the new features, some by good ole poking around, and some by watching Lynda.com. The first Lynda.com video I’m tackling is one on Outlook 2016, since I’d love to create and keep a more organized inbox.

The timing is interesting, because I’m also starting to learn a new job at my library! More on that soon!

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about adding skills to enhance my current job (and resume). While I’m super busy at work, picking up new skills could help a lot, right?! The skillset I keep coming back to is technology. I enjoy my tech toys, but I know there’s a lot more I could learn about technology that could help my work (and maybe even my hobbies too!).

I was talking to my better half about this a few nights ago, since I’ve been looking into certificate and degree options at the local community college. I’ve also searched YouTube for some videos, and you know what’s on YouTube–pretty much everything! He suggested I try the do-it-yourself method first, and see how I like it.

This afternoon, I had another idea after looking at a former colleague’s LinkedIn profile–lynda.com! Lynda.com is full of instructional videos on all kinds of topics, and at quick glance, the technology videos look especially good! An added bonus is that I can log in and watch the videos for free since my work has an institutional account, and I can do this from work or from home. (Any suggestions for particularly good videos on lynda.com?)

So, what am I going to start with? I’ve been wanting to increase my Microsoft Excel skills for years, so I think I’ll start with some Excel videos on Lynda.com, and see if I can stick with videos as a learning method. If it works out, I’m really interested in trying my hand at some programming. I also have several dead-in-the-water websites that I’d like to resurrect, so maybe I’ll add some website building skills too.

What other technology skills might be helpful to librarians? I’d love suggestions!